A Personal Journey Around Capri’s Coastline: The Private Island of Capri by Boat
If you’re dreaming of crystal-clear waters, dramatic cliffs, and legendary rock formations, then a private boat tour around Capri might just be the highlight of your trip. For about $194 per person, you get roughly two hours of floating through Italy’s most famous island’s waters—an intimate experience that offers the flexibility to customize your itinerary, all guided by a local skipper like Mario or Ciro, whose reviews show they truly care about making your day special.
What we love about this experience is the chance to see Capri from the water, with stops at key sights like the Green Grotto and Faraglioni Rocks—places you can admire up close and even swim in if you wish. We also appreciate the personalized touch a private tour offers, avoiding the crowds and long lines common in larger group excursions. Plus, the inclusion of snorkeling gear and soft drinks makes it feel both fun and refreshing.
One thing to keep in mind is that the Blue Grotto isn’t included in this tour due to long wait times and the short duration; if visiting the Grotto is your priority, you might want to plan a dedicated trip. This tour works best for travelers who want a relaxed, flexible, and authentic experience with a small group or just your party—perfect for honeymooners, couples, or friends seeking a special day on the water.
Key Points
- Privately guided experience with personalized stops and commentary.
- Flexible schedule options with different departure times and tour lengths.
- Includes snorkeling equipment and soft drinks for a more relaxed adventure.
- Stops at Capri’s most iconic sights like the Green Grotto, Red Grotto, and Faraglioni Rocks.
- Avoids the Blue Grotto’s long queues, making the most of your limited time.
- Small group (max 4 people), ensuring a quiet, intimate setting perfect for families, couples, or small groups.
Exploring Capri by Boat: What to Expect
When you step onto your private boat in Capri’s main square—Piazza Angelo Ferraro—you’ll notice how smoothly things are organized. The meeting point is easy to find, and getting there often involves a quick golf cart ride from the main port, making the start of the trip hassle-free. Once aboard, you’ll find that the boat is generally well-maintained, comfortable, and perfect for short cruises.
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The Itinerary: A Close-Up View of Capri’s Natural Wonders
This tour’s route is designed to showcase several of Capri’s standout coastal features, all within a roughly two-hour window. The stops are brief but immersive, giving you just enough time to appreciate each site without feeling rushed.
First stop: the Green Grotto (Grotta Verde). A favorite for many, this is a spot to swim or even climb the cliffs if you’re feeling adventurous. The water here looks like a giant emerald, and many reviews mention how captivating it is—one guest described it as “an enormous liquid emerald.” Since no admission fee is involved, the main value here is the experience of seeing and perhaps swimming in such a unique spot.
Next, the Red Grotto (Grotta Rossa) offers a different palette—thanks to the seaweed that colors the cave in fiery reds and oranges. It’s a quick stop but one that many mention as memorable, with reviews praising the vibrant colors and the opportunity to snap photos.
The Natural Arch on the east coast is a remnant of a collapsed grotto, dating from the Paleolithic age. It’s a dramatic natural formation that gives you a sense of the island’s ancient geology. During our ride, you’ll get a good look at this landmark, which is more about appreciating nature’s artistry than a lengthy stop.
The Faraglioni Rocks are perhaps the most iconic image of Capri—three towering spurs that rise out of the sea just off the southern coast. This is where the real postcard moments happen, and many reviews highlight how the “splendid game of light” and the legends surrounding these rocks make the view unforgettable. You’ll have about 15 minutes here to take photos, soak in the scenery, and enjoy the unique perspective of the cliffs from the water.
Passing by the Blue Grotto: Due to long wait times and the short duration of this tour, entering the Grotto isn’t feasible. Instead, the guide might pass by this world-famous attraction, allowing you to admire it from a distance—an approach appreciated by those wanting to avoid the crowds or who are short on time.
What’s Included and What’s Not
This private tour includes free soft drinks, snorkeling gear, and life jackets, making it suitable for a casual, leisurely experience. We loved the way the drinks and snorkeling gear added a layer of comfort and fun to the trip. The tour is led by a local sailor or guide, whose knowledge and friendly attitude get glowing reviews—many describing them as “kind,” “informative,” and “great to be out on the water with.”
What isn’t included are alcoholic drinks (which you can buy on board), or lunch—so plan accordingly if you’re hungry or want to toast after the trip.
Tour Lengths and Flexibility
You can choose between two tour lengths, which provides flexibility for your schedule. The 2-hour option is ideal if you want a quick but scenic overview, while longer options might be available if you want to linger at certain sights or include additional stops.
The departure times are adjustable, which is a big plus for those with tight or flexible itineraries. If you’re arriving from Positano, it’s recommended to book a 12 PM departure or later because early ferries are often delayed or canceled, as many reviews point out.
The Authenticity and Value of the Experience
Many travelers mention how much they appreciated the personalized service—a stark contrast to larger, more commercial tours. This intimacy allows guides to give more detailed explanations and take photos of your group, making it a truly memorable experience. Multiple reviews rave about guides like Massimo, Ciro, and Paco, who are praised not just for their knowledge but for their friendly, approachable demeanor.
In terms of value, at roughly $194, the experience is often described as worth the price—especially for those who want a private, flexible, and scenic way to see Capri. Considering the cost of a boat rental, a guide, snorkeling equipment, and the exclusivity of a private tour, it’s a good deal that offers genuine value.
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Who Should Book This Tour?
This trip suits travelers who prioritize personalized, quiet exploration over large-group excursions. If you love stunning views and want to avoid the crowds at the Blue Grotto, this is perfect. It’s also ideal for small groups, couples, or families looking for a relaxed day on the water with a knowledgeable guide.
However, if seeing the Blue Grotto up-close (which isn’t included here) or a longer tour to explore more hidden spots is your focus, you might want to look for other options. For a short, scenic, and well-reviewed experience that respects your time and privacy, this private boat ride is hard to beat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a shared tour or private?
This is a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, offering a quiet, personalized experience.
How long is the tour?
You can select from two lengths—around 2 hours—perfect for a quick glimpse or a relaxing afternoon.
What sights will I see?
You’ll visit the Green Grotto, Red Grotto, Natural Arch, and Faraglioni Rocks, with a pass-by of the Blue Grotto from a distance.
What is included in the price?
The tour includes soft drinks, snorkeling equipment, and life jackets.
Can I swim or snorkel during the tour?
Yes, many reviews mention enjoying swimming and snorkeling at the stops, with equipment provided.
Are there any additional costs?
Alcoholic drinks can be purchased on board, but the tour itself does not include lunch or drinks other than soft drinks provided.
What should I wear or bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a towel, and your camera. The boat is open, so dress for sun and water activities.
Is the Blue Grotto visit guaranteed?
No, due to long queues and the short duration of this tour, entering the Blue Grotto isn’t included or guaranteed.
What if I arrive late?
Arriving late might mean missing the tour, especially if you’re coming from Positano, so plan ahead and aim for the recommended departure times.
Final Thoughts
A private boat tour around Capri offers an unbeatable way to see this stunning island from a perspective few get to enjoy—on the water, close to nature, and with the freedom to customize your experience. The combination of knowledgeable guides, breathtaking scenery, and the comfort of a private vessel makes it a memorable escape from the hustle of crowded tourist spots.
While it might not include the Blue Grotto or lengthy explorations, this trip excels in providing a quick, scenic, and deeply personal encounter with Capri’s iconic coastlines. It’s perfect for those who value intimacy, flexibility, and authentic beauty you can’t get from a bus or a big tour group.
If you’re craving a relaxed yet stunning discovery of Capri’s natural marvels, this private boat experience is well worth considering. Just remember to book in advance, especially if you’re arriving from nearby towns, and enjoy the ride—the best seat in the house on Italy’s most famous island.